"Mike Rapoport" wrote in message
link.net...
snip
The integrated circuit was patented in 1959.

I'm not sure what your point is, but the IC was little more than an
"interesting" technology before the Apollo program poured money into it. In
1963 a single flip-flop was about $100! Companies such as Signetics,
Fairchild and National needed to see a potential profit for them to invest
in equipment. Just as important, they needed to know that it was possible
to produce ICs profitably, and that is what the Apollo report I mentioned
did.

So I really believe that the big Govenment program very positive benefits to
society. If anyone can say for sure that the Mars program won't do the
same, I'd like to know how he/she can see the future. Better yet, tell us
what the new technology is that we won't get if the program is not funded --
I'll invest in it myself!